The Ritz-Carlton, Denver, has achieved Gold-level certification in Audubon International’s Green Lodging Program, which recognizes its implementation of sustainable best practices.
Audubon International’s Green Lodging Program, offered at four levels from Bronze to Platinum, equips hospitality facilities with tools to reduce energy use, conserve water, and minimize waste. Certification provides a marketing advantage and public recognition for environmental leadership.
“This is an impressive achievement for one of the world’s great lodging brands, for the city of Denver, and for all involved in making it happen, from management to staff,” said Christine Kane, CEO of Audubon International. “Our Green Lodging sector is growing, and travelers and planners want to stay at properties committed to sustainability.”
The 202-room luxury hotel in downtown Denver completed a range of infrastructure upgrades to meet Gold-level criteria. Measures included installing LED lighting, energy-saving switches, and double-glazing windows. Surface-level changes, such as eliminating single-use plastics and enhancing recycling programs, complemented these efforts.
“We started with crucial infrastructure, focusing on the things that we can control to drive this sustainability agenda forward,” said Brad Mills, the hotel’s general manager. “To get to this high level of certification, we really focused on things we were able to achieve. The journey’s just beginning for this hotel.”
Mills emphasized the role of Audubon International in guiding the property’s environmental initiatives. “They’re a great partner, helping us make the right decisions to make an impact. The core of this is to do the right thing,” he said.
The Green Lodging Gold certification reflects the increasing demand for sustainability in the hospitality industry and supports the hotel’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship.
